Wide receiver Zakhari Franklin has joined the Illinois football team, according to an announcement by head coach Bret Bielema. Franklin is recognized as college football's active career leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
During his four-year tenure at UTSA, Franklin set single-season and career records for receptions, receiving yards per game, 100-yard games, and receiving touchdowns. His 38 receiving touchdowns place him 21st in FBS history and surpass any other active player by 12 touchdowns. With these achievements, he brings more career receptions and receiving touchdowns than any previous Illinois player.
"Zakhari is a dynamic wide receiver that will instantly impact our offense," said head coach Bret Bielema. "We are excited to reunite Zakhari and Barry Lunney after they had two highly productive seasons together in the past."
Franklin previously played under offensive coordinator Barry Lunney at UTSA from 2020-21. During this period, he recorded 130 receptions for 1,721 yards and 19 touchdowns over 23 games.
"Zakhari is an accomplished football player with a lot ahead of him," said Lunney. "He will be a great addition to our offense and wide receivers room."
Franklin joins Illinois alongside cornerback Terrance Brooks from Texas as one of two four-star transfers following spring practices. Including offensive lineman J.C. Davis from New Mexico, Illinois' three four-star transfers rank sixth among the Big Ten's 18 teams.
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